Debbie Ireland to Stand in the 2026 TECT Community Trust Trustee Election
Our Founder, local business leader and community advocate Debbie Ireland has announced her candidacy for the 2026 TECT Trustee Election. Debbie brings a combination of governance expertise, commercial leadership, and a strong commitment to the future of the region.
The upcoming TECT Community Trust Trustee Election is an important opportunity for Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty community to help shape the future of one of New Zealand's largest community trusts. TECT manages assets of more than $1 billion and has distributed over $228 million in grants since 1993, supporting countless local organisations, facilities, events, schools, and community initiatives.
Strong Governance and Community Experience
Debbie brings extensive leadership experience, including:
- Chair of the Tauranga Business Chamber
- Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors
- Former Chair of Youth Search and Rescue (YSAR)
- Founder and Managing Director of Digital Workplace Results for nearly 20 years
Looking to the Future
Debbie believes our region is experiencing real pressures, from housing and infrastructure, to wellbeing, the environment, an ageing population, AND the pace of digital change.
For her, that means protecting the fund, listening to community needs, and planning ahead.
Debbie's campaign centres around three key priorities:
Protect
Safeguarding TECT's billion-dollar fund through strong governance, careful decision-making, and long-term stewardship.
Connect
Listening to communities throughout Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty to ensure funding decisions reflect genuine local needs and priorities.
Prepare
Bringing a future-focused perspective to help communities, organisations, and future generations navigate an increasingly fast-changing world.
How to Vote
Eligible residents and ratepayers in the TECT district (Tauranga and Western Bay Electroral Roll) will receive voting information by mail from 25 September 2026, with voting closing at 12 noon on Friday 23 October 2026. Voting is conducted online using the unique PIN provided in each voting pack.
Read the Full Campaign Article
To learn more about Debbie Ireland's background, experience, vision, and commitment to the community, read the full article👉.
Every vote helps shape the future of our community. Take the time to learn about the candidates and have your say in the 2026 TECT Trustee Election.